But in the
innermost nook of this mighty remnant, and using for its lowly walls
two sides of the ancient ashlar ones, stood a cot builded not over
trimly of small wood, and now much overgrown with roses and woodbine.
In front of it was a piece of garden ground, wherein waxed potherbs,
and a little deal of wheat; and therein was a goodly row of bee-
skeps; and all without it was the pleasant greensward aforesaid,
wherein stood three great ancient oaks, and divers thorns, which also
were ancient after their kind.
The elder led his guest into the cot, which had but simple plenishing
of stools and benches, and a table unartful, and then went to tether
his goats in the ruined hall of the house, and the children must
needs with him, though Birdalone had been glad of one of them at
least; but there was no nay, but that they must go see their dear
white goat in her stall. Howsoever all three came back again
presently, the old carle with a courteous word in his mouth, and he
took Birdalone's hand, and kissed it and bade her welcome to his
house, as though he had been a great lord at home in his own castle.
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